204: Battling Discontentment in Motherhood // Practical Ways to Thrive as a SAHM

[@lynnettehorning915]

My sister said something yesterday that I thought was profound "You can always be replaced at work but you can never be replaced at home. "

[@freetobe15]

Wow! That's good. Thanks for sharing

[@sarahhedrick9277]

Love that!

[@carolfrischknecht2159]

I am grateful for Elisha's perspective on putting God's work in the home on a pedestal. We would have more peace in marriages, in homes, and the world if people would value the mother's divine work in the home more than the monetary contribution or worldly accolades. I appreciate the comment that we, as God's children, were not sent here to "accomplish" and I might add, that we are here to "become" new creatures in Christ. The home is the laboratory for developing Christ-like attributes. I love how Katie is promoting using our God given gifts in the home. Because each of us are individuals and are unique, each home will look different. Thank you for promoting and sharing such important messages!!❤️

[@hannahthehomesteader]

I had 3 kids under 3 and never have I ever been bored as a stay at home mom! My hobbies fully support the home and I love it. Gardening, baking bread, canning, preserving, cooking from scratch, diy home projects, etc, are all very stimulating and enjoyable. My kids keep me plenty busy, too. But I'm not playing WITH them and I'm not managing their toy mess because they really don't have many. Instead I read with them and facilitate play but, more often than not, they help me all day. I get stuff done with them because, otherwise, stuff won't get done! My top tips are - have very little stuff so you can clean up quickly and host other people easily, keep to naps no matter what so your kids are always rested, eat very healthy so everyone has good energy all the time, and do your work with the kids.

[@Alphacentauri819]

Playing with your kids is key, yes reading books to them is nice..but the play, is what helps the attunement to connect, the emotional self regulation to develop (as they grow), secure attachment to form. Those things do not just happen from you being around. Emotional mirroring, attunement and a secure attachment, are among the most powerful things to keep your kids happy and safe later on. It will determine the kind of relationships they have, whether or not they become addicted to things…not a fail safe…but definitely very powerful. I am a grandparent and wish I knew this back when. I was an RN, and am now pursuing a degree in neuroscience. This stuff matters. Our society pushes achievement and intellectual intelligence, but it too often forgets the essence of why we exist. Connection, relationship. The only way those can grow in a healthy way, is through safety, the mother being regulated (nervous system), taking time to listen (really being present) with her children. Many diseases later and relationship failures aren’t only due to abuse, but emotional neglect. A child can have food, shelter, clothes, go to the doctor as needed, holiday celebrations and still be starving for true emotional connection and being known. Also, that’s lovely you can do your hobbies and still be a stay at home mom. I had to drop almost all my hobbies and my job as an RN, for my child I stayed at home for. Some moms can barely stay on top of the minimum when their child has medical/special needs. Eating once a day, showering once a week was my norm…with almost no support. I did, take time to tune into my child though, being present, and I’m grateful I learned that then. My oldest I really would have done many things differently with, had u known what I know now.

[@steffa648]

I actually look forward to doing my menial tasks so I can listen to podcasts like this one 😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣 Seriously!! And you guys are one of my top 5!!

[@KatrinFieberitz-sh7jh]

From my own experience I would add that feeling alone and lonely contributed highly to me feeling discontent at times in motherhood. Especially if you get (and foster) the impression that there are no other like-minded mother or families around. Staying at home with my toddler and kindergarden-aged child made me feel alienate and in fact there where no other mothers to meet or kids to play with in the park until daycare closed around 4p.m.... Thank you two for pointing out so many other valid and important aspects. Greetings from Germany!

[@katekatiekate]

wow wow wow!! what encouragement! Gods timing is incredible, I NEEDED to hear this this morning! (I already listened to this on spotify haha) As a new mom at 23 and living in the easier times, I have been struggling with boredom and with boredom comes laziness, and you were so right about everything you said!! I am so thankful God is using you both to enlighten us with truth! may God bless you both and your family immensely!!

[@katekatiekate]

Thank you so much!! that was so sweet of you to write!! 🥰

[@ginahartley9833]

I love you guys. You guys have so much wisdom for your age. I have been married for 38 years and have 5 children ages 38 to 14. My calling has always been to be Mom first. My whole life has been around my family and I never regret the choices I have made, even though I grew up in a world that does not give credit to moms. I love and missed my children when they were babies and were small. I really needed to hear this ...I wish I could hear these words come from my family (my mother). I am still mothering young adults and now 6 grandchildren.

[@dianaaasims]

Wow!!! I love this SOOOO MUCH, seriously so grateful Katie and Elisha are sharing their lives online because there is NO ONE around me talking like this. I’m so so so grateful for you guys! Praise GOD!

[@angelab4518]

I had a father who used to say to me when I was a child and teenager "being a wife and mother is the highest calling you can achieve in your life". This has shaped me. All I wanted was to marry and have children. (Just made it hard to wait until 29 until I got married.) I never had doubts about the significance of my role as a mother, though it still can be hard to learn to enjoy all the many daily challenges it brings. But thanks to my dad who just spoke truth into my life from an early age (plus my mom being an example of it), I never bought the lies of feminism. Sadly I've never met other younger Christian women (here in Germany) with those same strong beliefs, instead they are all more or less influenced by feminism in various ways, often without being aware of it. Even though they had Christian parents, who just didn't emphasize this truth and/ or didn't gave an example themselves. And so they struggle a lot with their roles as wife's and mothers and just can't see God's plan and the high value of motherhood.

[@alittleheavenonearth]

❤

[@Sonyacita]

I loved hearing Katie isn’t a natural at it all - I describe her as a professional mother! I had no idea. That’s very encouraging to me that I can grow into not only more ability, but true contentment in motherhood/homemaking/family life. Thank you ❤

[@mrsstrople]

Wow! Your point around the 19-20 minute mark is wonderful. This is why it's so great to talk about biblical ideas. Sometimes someone says something in a different way that just resonates!

[@boysnpinktowels]

I really appreciated Elisha ‘nitpicking’ the topic of the medial tasks, because I find myself stuck right in the middle between how Elishah thinks, and how Katie thinks, so it was really insightful to listen through the thought process, and the argument in support for each side. Thank you both

[@rachelgarland1881]

I would LOVE IT if you guys would mention each podcast what you’re currently into. Like, if I could see a peek at what Katie’s KZbin looks like while she’s folding laundry, or a current favorite podcast, etc. 👀🙌🏻☺️

[@CatladyActionFigure]

There is nothing more precious, important or necessary than motherhood.

[@melaniepalmer4206]

We are doing Kingdom work🥰

[@TheVivian_Show]

I really loved this discussion. I was saved about 3 years ago, and my children are now 11 and 9. I've very recently realized that all of my current stress/discontentment is coming from where I am not pouring into my home and motherhood. This was such an encouraging message and I just love the wisdom you share. God Bless your family! ❤

[@peggy6183]

So true, thank you! The work as a parent has an impact even beyond our death. It shapes the future generation. So important!

[@anniec.9531]

I needed to hear this tonight, thank you for your honesty❤

[@feliciagiangualano1994]

This is the greatest KZbin channel I have ever found! At this time of my life anyways. This is better than being at church. Thank you so much for this!!!!

[@steffa648]

I know right?!!! The church definitely doesn’t talk about these things but they should!!

[@dianachubenko1484]

This episode was such a blessings to me. I have been struggling staying at home being pregnant and taking care of 3 kids under 3 years old! Thank you for speaking the truth and encouraging me!

[@aguilacec]

I was hesitant to listen to this one because I’m a happy mom (thank God). However, Katie spoke with so much wisdom. I’m glad I listen to it. I have to say that you are one of the reasons why I feel inspired to be a good mom. Thank you.

[@nandinaibach5419]

I love the accountability you talk about in having a peaceful and organized home. So many people I know complain about their home, don’t want to invite others to their home or just act like the messes are completely out of their control. In my opinion the lack of motivation to cultivate a peaceful and well- run home is driven by victimhood and excuses.

[@pmaciel44]

I really appreciated how you both were included in this and were so gracious with each other like in real life. This was much needed.

[@mechelleparker2332]

Katie! Thank you for clarifying the difference between housekeeping and motherhood. My husband and I for years thought that was the same thing and it wasn’t until this year that I realized it’s not the same. And I had to explain that to you a few times. Yes we do them so we can spend more time with our kids. 😊

[@linap92]

4 min in and had to give a thumbs up… the intro was everything I needed to hear rn

[@shb8212]

I think we can totally struggle and glorify God in the midst of that. Talking about struggle doesn't necessarily mean we're discontent or ungrateful... right? Talking about the struggle helps us us meet eachother where we're at. For what it's worth I have had to tune out of Katy and Katy's Q&As with her mom (even though I LOVE what Jenise has to say and get so much inspiration there) for a time because I just felt like such a failure for struggling through some days. There is rarely a mention that sometimes it is hard mentally ... and when there is it's directly followed with a comparison to another former time when literally everything was harder(which I actually agree with and dwell on daily). I totally agree with Katy and stretch myself daily to do more entertaining, more interaction with my kids, more time outside, making a handmade home, a welcoming space, learning and growing every day... and some days I really want a little space from my kids and "a target run" or just a walk outside alone. Sometimes it's really tempting to turn on a podcast instead of sitting in toddler chatter all day... and I think that's OK to talk about in a constructive way. Sometimes these talks with Katy are extremely discouraging 😞

[@rebeccamason1149]

Needed to hear this! Blessings to you both!!

[@Dana-mb1hd]

This touched my heart and soul as a mama thank you both❤

[@ashleyneale8859]

Sooo good! Probably my favorite episode & so helpful 🤗

[@Eszter.Hlatky]

I was blessed by it thank you :) timing is perfect

[@mollyrecchia6445]

Appreciate your podcast so much! I agree with so much of what you both have shared!

[@KP-cf5ru]

Wow I don’t usually comment on videos but this just articulated & answered exactly the thoughts I’ve been having lately. I know there are a LOT of incredible Christian channels but this was just miles ahead of the rest (yours and Milena & Jordan’s) 5 stars!! Super encouraging ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Could you please do a video or answer the topic of if you’ve found Christ while in a marriage and want to grow Gods kingdom and teach our children all they can learn but husband is not on board? I’m so stuck between submitting to my husband and honouring him and being the best example of Christ & Christian I can be but wanting to fulfill my duty to minister to our children. And on top of that all the spiritual attacks on our marriage is making it difficult. Thank you 😊

[@patriciabellah9392]

Now we have to be responsible and feel the time up with good things. I don't have kids and I fall into this.

[@gigib4076]

Great differentiation; housekeeping is different than homemaking which is different than parenting. Housekeeping is not parenting👏👏👏

[@ashimakhalid6716]

Your appetite and desires can change to serve you and to serve what you are mentally committed to but not enjoying ❤❤

[@morganjones4186]

So practical and helpful. Thank you.

[@shelbyd576]

I also think that discontentment can be bred from not finding our contentment in the Lord, not always boredom, at least that’s been my struggle sometimes❤️so maybe first start with spending time with the Lord. At least that’s been my experience.

[@shelbyd576]

Love this! What if I don’t “have my home in incredible order” but are in a season of postpartum anxiety/depression issues after our fourth and want to still have a joyful, peaceful home and feel even more discouraged when I look around my house and it’s not as orderly as I want, but I’m trying to just love my kids well and keep the basic things happening? Hard to not shame myself and my capacity in this season but wish I could figure it out🤦🏼‍♀️

[@CarissaTate-pz3of]

This is so so good. THANK YOU for these valuable insights and encouragement! My husband and I love the podcast. We currently have a sweet 3 month old daughter named Selah Rose I’m staying home with.

[@shiftingbabe3947]

Congratulations 🎊 what a beautiful time with a first baby. Love her name. Many blessings 🎉

[@ShesMakinDough]

Absolutely love and look forward to these podcasts so much!

[@sabl6381]

This was perfectly timed content for my current season of life. Thank you and God bless!

[@EncsiJ]

The more i 'have to do housework' i try to find ways i can be greatful for it and it makes the housework more enjoyable and ministerful. Forexample: when I'm doing dishes i remember how blessed we are that we had great meals to eat and I feel greatful to God for it. So my thouths make the dishes more exiting 🙃 I teach my kids the same when it comes to housework to think about how blessed we are we have nice toys to put away, we have a nice home to clean we have nice clothes to wash and fold away. It makes things easier ❤️ Thank you for your deep thinking videos 🙏🥰

[@melindakornelsen3218]

I think this is your best episode yet! I've just listened to the first 10 minutes yet and have already had lots of food for thought.

[@stephj4940]

Praising the Lord for each dish 😆 love this. Great real talk

[@clairemerryfull941]

This is such incredible encouragement!! Thank you so much. Very grateful for your work ❤

[@CatladyActionFigure]

Katie, your delightful "rant" at the end reminded me of Joshua Becker's "rants". He has interesting, creative things to say much on the themes you and Elisha so wonderfully present. What a great team you two are. Mr Becker is a Christian family man, and interesting deep thinker. I think it would be a treat to watch you and Elisha interview him. Or just a conversation between the men on being Christian fathers and husbands in this world or whatever topics come up. Love you guys' podcast. Thank you both for what you do. Link. .

[@hayleyroderick1095]

Omg Elisha getting emotional almost made me cry! Loved this episode!

[@buffalolifesavers]

As always you are both encouraging & challenging. Thanks for this episode!

[@LexiGolenya]

This was such an awesome episode so many truth nuggets!!! thank you!!!

[@diversekakes]

I agree with you guys completely

[@ursulamartin9690]

Oh so inspiring! Thank you from Belgium

[@hannahh8178]

❤God bless guys..you look so nice lovely Kattie

[@Diana-mu9vd]

Great topic! Thank you :). Are there pastors/preachers/churches you recommend listening to?

[@katiekawaler929]

Watching this as I'm folding laundry, which is so funny that you mentioned that partway through! That is such a good thought on the difference between housekeeping and motherhood. I tend to pit the two against each other as enemies, but having a restful home is so good for the family, and having a restful family makes it easier for the kids to play by themselves for a minute while I do a needed task around the house! "The God is peace" is right there ❤️

[@susanbaity2350]

Amen to the public library books!!! Drinking from broken cisterns. Waste of time and terrible agendas.

[@bethany3914]

Do you have some recommended books and podcasts that would help in affirming that calling to motherhood?

[@colombia2009ish]

Has any onr read habits for a sacred home? Trying to find inspo/books/resources on the subject

[@leannglasman7147]

Our society has forgotten the power a mother weilds with her love, influence, and guidance. "The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world," written by William Ross Wallace in 1865 shows us today this wisdom existed over 150 years. How many nations' histories have been swayed through the mother's dominance, guidance, and/or direction? We women need to realize our position as Stay At Home Moms and homeschoolers can change the political and spiritual landscape of our nation. And those who are currently working to change our culture fear us, which is why they belittle us, lie to us. Ignore them, listen to Him who is the source of True Wisdom.

[@MorganeK]

There's some worldly advice mixed into all the great things you're both saying. Kath, if you find discontentment in your heart, the answer is look to Christ... Don't look to *improve yourself*, but to grow in Christ. If you're bored, first look to serve in your local church, find ways to share Christ before you even thinking of getting a *hobby*. And Elisha, I appreciate your views on family, but as Jesus said some will be called to be eunuchs for the sake of the Kingdom, and that is glorious too. And Paul called his singleness a gift, that he wished others would have and that was better than marriage. So I don't see in the Bible that marriage and family is the highest calling. Your children might be called to remain single for the sake of the Kingdom, to never become a spouse or a parent, and that will be glorious too. Sorry to say that, but those who teach will receive a greater judgment, so be careful what you say to your thousands of viewers and your children. 🙂❤

[@kamilakrajciova8030]

Hello, Katie, if you read this - I have a question about your homeschool course and can not find another way how to ask it - so sorry for this "comment - non comment". I would like to know, if this course would be usable for me - I´m from Europe (Slovakia) and I need to teach my son in our language. I´m mother of 6 and they are not homeschooled, but my youngest son is 9 months and I would like to get some inspirations from you. Please, let me know, if I would be able to use your course in my language and conditions and living place. THANK YOU.

[@alittleheavenonearth]

God is a god of order! ❤

[@jeremiah08kush]

👌

[@laurao8099]

It is such a shamel and honestly devastating that anybody would consider devoting your life to your children and your home as "small"

[@tiffp323]

Not a criticism just a sincere question: where are the kids when these are filmed??

[@patriciabellah9392]

Men are usually taught child raising is not there responsibility. It's not there job to nurture there children. Atleast that's what I grew up with.

[@CatladyActionFigure]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXjXgXmiZ7qHf5I. . This is link for Joshua Becker

[@shiftingbabe3947]

15:08 Come on Katie, this was a whole word in these sentences. So good! What a blessing, you are wise beyond your years. You're making me reevaluate negative jokes and affirming this high calling as a mother that homeschools. This podcast has been a true blessing to my life. I've listened to many over the last few weeks. I came over from your main channel. Many blessings to your family Elisha and Katie 😇